“On August 29th, I suffered a pacemaker implantation that resulted in two leads piercing my heart. For the next three days of apprehension and pain, I awaited cardiothoracic surgery to correct the problem. Needless to say, my confidence in surgical treatments and personal life expectancy was crushed. In spite of the encouraging words of attending doctors, nurses, family and friends, I was emotionally devastated.
The cardiothoracic surgery was successfully performed on September 2nd. In the CCU, after coming out of the anesthesia and finding I couldn’t speak because of the airway in my throat, I was confused and panic-stricken. Although the anesthesia and pain medication clouded my thinking, I remember distinctly that Nick was there with his attentive skills and comforting words throughout my stay in the CCU. At every opportunity, he communicated that he was expertly watching over me and would not leave me. He dealt very diplomatically with my family members in controlling visit times to ensure I got maximum rest. He told me exactly what was being done for me and answered, through his caring style, questions and fears I couldn’t communicate because of the airway restriction. He was my emotional anchor in a turbulent sea.
I shall never forget his professionalism and compassionate clinical skills. He certainly meets all the criteria and is deserving of the DAISY Award.”